Thousands of Rubber Ducks Race Down Chicago River for Special Olympics Fundraiser
Thousands of rubber ducks were released into the Chicago River as part of an annual fundraising event for the Special Olympics.
Chicago, IL, August 8, 2026 —
Thousands of bright yellow rubber ducks were released into the Chicago River on Saturday for the annual Chicago Polar Duck Race, a key fundraising event for Special Olympics Chicago.
The event saw a massive number of ducks, each with a unique number, floating downstream. Participants adopted ducks in hopes their chosen duck would cross the finish line first, with prizes awarded to the winners.
The primary goal of the Chicago Polar Duck Race is to raise vital funds for Special Olympics Chicago, which provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The funds raised directly support these programs, offering opportunities for athletes to develop physical fitness, gain courage, and experience joy.
The exact number of ducks released and the total amount raised were not immediately available. The contractor responsible for the duck release was not specified in the provided information.
This annual tradition has become a popular spectacle, drawing crowds to the riverbanks to watch the colorful aquatic event unfold. While the focus is on fun and fundraising, the underlying purpose is to support the athletes of Special Olympics Chicago.
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